Want to read more information about catalytic converter theft? Then check out our blog.
Why do catalytic converters get stolen?
About the catalytic converter in a car, you usually do not think until you start the car in the morning and the exhaust is louder than usual. Most often it is then the case that the catalytic converter was stolen.
In recent years, the theft of catalytic converters has increased dramatically. The reason for this is that catalytic converters contain many precious metals such as rhodium and palladium. These raw materials have become more and more expensive in recent years, which makes it worthwhile for thieves to steal the catalytic converter.
Often it takes only a few minutes for thieves to steal a catalytic converter from a car.
How to prevent catalytic converter theft?
Here are some steps you can take to prevent catalytic converter theft:
- Parking in a secure location: Park your vehicle in a garage or well-lit area to make it less accessible to thieves.
- Etching the catalytic converter: Engrave your vehicle identification number (VIN) on the catalytic converter to make it more difficult for thieves to sell it as a stolen part.
- Awareness: Be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious activity to the police.
- Surveillance cameras: Install surveillance cameras to monitor the area where your vehicle is parked.
- Additional protection: Some vehicle owners have added additional protection to their catalytic converters by welding a metal cage or shield around them.
It’s important to be proactive and take steps to secure your vehicle and its parts to prevent catalytic converter theft.
What cars are targeted for catalytic converter theft?
Catalytic converters are often targeted for theft from high-end and hybrid vehicles due to their high precious metal content, such as palladium, rhodium, and platinum.
Of course, catalytic converters are also stolen from normal cars. It is often the case that larger engines also have larger catalytic converters, which are more valuable. It is also usually the case that “V8” engines have twice the number of catalytic converters than a “normal” 4-cylinder engine.
Some of the most commonly targeted vehicles for catalytic converter theft include:
- Toyota Prius
- Honda Civic
- Toyota Camry
- Honda Accord
- Lexus LS400
- Toyota RAV4
- Lexus RX400h
- Toyota Highlander
- Honda CR-V
How to stop catalytic converter theft?
There are several measures you can take to prevent catalytic converter theft:
- Install a security device: Some car owners have installed security devices such as clamps, cages, or alarms to deter thieves.
- Engrave your converter: Engraving your vehicle identification number (VIN) on the converter can help law enforcement track it if it is stolen.
- Track your car: Installing GPS tracking device can assist law enforcement in locating your vehicle if it is stolen.
It is also advisable to check with your insurance company to see if your policy covers catalytic converter theft and what the requirements are for making a claim.
What is the price for a catalytic converter?
New catalytic converter
The price for a catalytic converter varies widely depending on several factors such as the type of vehicle it is for, the type of catalytic converter, and the manufacturer. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to over $2,000 for a replacement catalytic converter.
What is the scrap price for a catalytic converter?
The scrap price for a catalytic converter is determined by several factors such as the type of converter, its weight, and the current market price for the precious metals (such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium) it contains. On average, the scrap price for a catalytic converter can range anywhere from $5 to over $200, with the average being around $50 to $100. It’s important to note that the price can fluctuate greatly due to changes in supply and demand for precious metals.